While it’s not the most fun test to do, a stool test can be a very helpful tool for personalized nutrition interventions. These tests can reveal the root cause of many common GI symptoms, like bloating, diarrhea, constipation, indigestion or abdominal pain. It can also establish a link between the gut microbiome and other less obvious symptoms such as joint pain, eczema, weight changes, and mood disorders. Multiple research studies have noted the link between gastrointestinal dysbiosis (aka, an unhappy microbiome) and various disease states, both inside and outside the GI tract.
Many of the findings from a stool test can be treated with targeted nutrition and supplementation strategies. We love to use these tests because they look at the health of the gut across three major areas:
- Digestion and absorption of nutrients
- Inflammation and immune system markers
- The gut microbiome itself
Gastrointestinal issues are one of the most common reasons our clients seek out nutritional support. If you’re struggling with pesky, unpredictable digestive symptoms, a stool test is worth considering. Schedule an appointment or speak with your provider to discuss the most applicable test for you, and how it can shape your nutrition plan.
